TWO men who intervened when a drunk turned violent have been praised by a judge.
Off-duty paramedic Scott Scoot attempted to act as peacemaker after Matthew McKay turned on security guard Isaac Okojie in Spalding. Mr Scoot’s jaw was fractured after McKay punched him.
The drunk tried to run away but was later apprehended by passer-by Stuart Boswell who brought McKay to the ground but was bitten in the process.
Judge Michael Heath ordered that Mr Scoot and Mr Boswell should be paid a reward out of public funds.
The judge said: “I commend each of them and order each of them be paid £250.”
McKay, (20), of Station Road, Long Sutton, admitted causing grievous bodily harm to Mr Scoot on September 26. He also admitted assaulting Mr Boswell and charges of common assault to two police officers. McKay was sent to a young offenders’ institution for 21 months.
Lincoln Crown Court heard that the incident began in Winfrey Avenue bus station as Mr Okojie walked home after his shift at Sainsbury’s.
A bottle was thrown at him and when he confronted McKay he was chased home and Mr Scoot and Mr Boswell got involved.
Mr Howes said McKay continued to be violent after the police arrived and kicked out at PC Keith Royle.
At the police station McKay tried to bite PC Matthew Wharton as the officer attempted to treat his injuries.
Beris Brickles, defending, said McKay deeply regretted what happened. He said McKay had a traumatic childhood and suffered from post traumatic stress disorder. McKay has since turned to drink and Mr Brickles said the offences were committed under the influence of alcohol.